Talmud Torah of St. Paul and the Newman School are excited to welcome Jessie Lavintman as the interim Newman School director for the upcoming school year. Jessie succeeds Heidi Tarshish, who is retiring after 7 years as the director of education of the Newman School, Afternoon School, and Midrasha Programs.
Jessie Lavintman brings a strong background in administration and Jewish education. Since 2018, she has served as assistant director at Park Avenue Synagogue Congregational School in Manhattan. She has worked as a synagogue educator, a congregational schoolteacher, and a Hebrew specialist. Jessie is a Twin Cities native and is thrilled to be back in Minnesota and working in her hometown Jewish community.
“TTSP and the Newman School have been an instrumental part of this Jewish community for many years, and there continues to be a need here for this type of Jewish education,” said Lavintman. “I want to make sure this place continues to be a welcoming home for all students and their families.
“I know that Jessie will do an amazing job and will carry on the incredible work that we all have been doing here at TTSP,” said Heidi Tarshish. Heidi will continue to serve as the director of the afternoon school and Midrasha programs and will be assisting Jessie Lavintman through her transition to interim director.
As Interim Newman School Director, Lavintman will manage the school’s day-to-day operations, oversee the Newman School Faculty, and work strategically with Executive Director, Sho Garland, to continue to grow the school community.
“Jessie is an exciting addition to the Newman School and TTSP. She is passionate about making Jewish education fun and engaging for our students, and the community at large. Her energy and enthusiasm are sure to be welcome additions to TTSP and the St. Paul Jewish community,” said Garland.
“I look forward to continuing the outstanding work of Heidi and her predecessors,” added Lavintman. “I want to see the Newman School continue to thrive for many years to come, and I am excited to be a part of that.”
About Talmud Torah of St. Paul:
Talmud Torah of St. Paul (TTSP) has been the central address for Jewish education in St. Paul since 1956. TTSP consists of three major programs that provide challenging and innovative curricula for all. The Newman School is the Day School program of TTSP. The Afternoon School and Midrasha programs offer supplementary education classes for students in grades 2-12 to learn Hebrew, Torah, and Jewish culture. Hineni is the Adult Education program, which offers a wide variety of classes and events to inspire and meet the interests of adults of all ages.
Outstanding for so many reasons!!
Congrats to Heidi on her well deserved retirement and best wishes to Jessie!
What a fantastic choice!! Good luck.
Congratulations to everyone!!
Heidi has done an exceptional job building the school. Kol hakavode, Heidi!
Mazal tov to Jessie on her new position! She will do a wonderful job!
Welcome Jessie! I look forward to meeting you!
Kol Hakavod Heidi and Jessie!
Mazal Tov Jessie! I know how fortunate they are to have you!